DC Public Schools

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Leadership Initiative For Teachers (LIFT)

Traditionally, many teachers have found that the only way to advance in their careers is to leave the classroom. The Leadership Initiative For Teachers (LIFT) changes that. LIFT is a five-stage career ladder that provides high-performing teachers with opportunities for advancement inside the classroom, as well as additional responsibility and increased recognition and compensation.

At its core, LIFT is about honoring teachers as professionals, and making DCPS a place where teachers at any point in their careers can continue to learn and grow in an environment where they are respected and appreciated.

LIFT’S Goals

Retain Top Performers
As teachers advance up the LIFT ladder, they will become eligible for additional career and leadership opportunities that will not require them to stop teaching. In this way, LIFT allows teachers to plan a long and rewarding career in DCPS, filled with new challenges and opportunities for growth.

Reward Experience
LIFT highlights the achievements of successful teachers who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to DCPS. For example, the highest stage of the LIFT ladder is reserved for teachers who have dedicated a minimum of six years to the district.

Broaden Recognition
LIFT honors and rewards not only Highly Effective teachers, but also those who have earned Effective ratings. For the first time, these educators will be recognized for their performance, becoming eligible for additional compensation and reduced IMPACT observations.

Increase Career Stability
In most cases, a teacher will spend several years at the same LIFT stage. In addition, once teachers reach a particular stage, they will not revert to a previous one — they will only advance farther. These aspects of LIFT bring an important level of stability to a teacher’s career in DCPS.